Difficulties in learning english faced by secondary level students in Bangla medium schools in Bangladesh

Abstract

Learning English as a second language is indispensable in education system of Bangladesh. For Bangladeshi learners gaining proficiency is essential for higher studies in Bangladesh and abroad, in job sectors, and communicating with foreign agencies or international organizations. To develop English language proficiency secondary level education is considered vital in Bangladesh. However, published research and media reports often criticize the poor condition of Bangladeshi secondary students’ English attainment. Secondary level students of Bangla medium schools do not have proficiency in English up to desired level even after passing several high stake national examinations. Students struggle a lot and face various kinds of difficulties in English classes. This research explored some of the reasons behind this poor attainment. Results shows that there are numerous factors responsible for this low attainment and for some of them students are responsible, some of the factors related to poor teaching conditions and some of the causes related to various contextual factors. In conclusion, this study attempts to depict the real scenario of English classes in Bangla medium schools. At the end of the research some suggestions are made regarding how English classes at the secondary level can be made more interesting so that students can develop their language skills.